Northern are keen for these second-year students to gain experience of a wide variety of aspects of the rail industry, in particular a community approach to railways. For the third year in succession the students have joined the Leeds-Morecambe Community Rail Partnership, on the Bentham Line, to bring their valuable ideas to fruition along our route.

Officers from the partnership first met with the students in person in October 2020, prior to the winter’s covid challenges, and subsequently met via video call on a twice-per-month basis.

The ‘Get Nature Back on Track’ project is a series of panels and posters, along with a short animated film. The panels reflect the students’ keen interest in important ‘green energy’ issues and sustainability ideas, as the world places greater importance on tackling greenhouse gas emissions and the resulting global warming.

The project and the associated characters have been developed by the students to appeal to a wide ranging audience of all ages. However, the film is particularly designed for a younger audience. The panels and animation echo local, national and worldwide sustainability issues and offer simple ideas to improve a variety of situations.

An exhibition of the students work was held at the Carnforth Station Heritage centre in June 2021 to display the 9 striking pieces of artwork and the film, which the students created alongside a professional artist. It also provided an opportunity to thank the students for their strong commitment throughout the year.

We hope you enjoy the posters, take on the challenge of seeking out the panels at the stations along the Bentham Line and make use of the tips and advice offered within your business or family. Watch out for the exhibition at stations along the line too.

The students: Elliot Bateson, Molly Baulcombe, Cora Hayne, Isabelle Holgate, Sophie Lambert, Dominic Martin, Matt Rayson, Jemimah Smith and Sarah Stevenette.

The Illustrator: Alastair Nicholson.